More than 5,000 personnel, including local firefighters, volunteers, and civil protection officers, are engaged in firefighting operations. Support comes from 17 firefighting aircraft, 4 helicopters, water tankers, and heavy machinery working tirelessly to suppress active fire fronts.
Greece’s appeal to the European Civil Protection Mechanism has brought in four additional firefighting aircraft from partner nations—highlighting strong cross-border cooperation amid the escalating crisis.
Zakynthos Shows Signs of Stabilizing
On Zakynthos, a beloved tourism hotspot known for its dramatic cliffs and golden beaches, authorities report that the main wildfire is largely under control. Only isolated hot spots remain, with three helicopters continuing targeted water drops to fully quench embers. However, unpredictable temperatures and wind could still cause flare-ups.
Kefalonia: Vigilance Needed Amid Volatile Conditions
Kefalonia, meanwhile, remains tense and unpredictable. Wildfires have not yet reached inhabited zones, but containment is challenging due to steep, rugged terrain and variable winds. Firefighters are focusing on defensive perimeters, clearing dry vegetation, and using aerial surveillance to detect any new hotspots.
Officials issued evacuation alerts late at night for areas such as Faraklata, Dilina, and Davgata, urging residents to relocate toward safer zones like Myrtos. Some areas also experienced temporary power cuts, though restoration efforts are underway.
Urgent Safety Guidance for All in the Region
Emergency services advise both locals and visitors to:
- Monitor updates via official Greek Civil Protection channels.
- Prepare for swift evacuation.
- Keep essential supplies ready.
- Respect evacuation orders without delay.
Following these measures can ensure smoother evacuation if conditions deteriorate.
Wildfire Season Hits Southern Europe Hard
This surge in fires forms part of a broader wildfire crisis affecting much of southern Europe, fueled by an extreme heatwave. Greece has battled more than 150 wildfires since early August 2025, including fires on two tourism-heavy islands and across mainland regions like Patras.
Satellite data shows that over 24,000 acres have been scorched in places like Achaia and Chios. Europe’s most intense temperatures on record have heightened wildfire risks across the region.
A Race Against Time
While improvements are visible in Zakynthos, with containment progressing, Kefalonia remains a critical concern. Firefighting units must remain vigilant, particularly as the height of summer continues and climate-driven fire risks loom large.
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